10 Ways to Make Every Day a Great Hair Day

(Reuters)

A common problem women face? Not knowing what type of hair they really have. That mane may look curly and dry, but it could actually be waves that tend to get slick with excess oil instead. This may not sound like a big deal, but stylists stress that using products for the wrong type of hair can easily lead to less than flattering results. “Many people misidentify their hair texture and then proceed to use the wrong products,” explains Los Angeles-based groomer Julia Papworth. “Take time to learn about your hair and ask your stylist to recommend the best products to use for your specific hair type.” Don’t let the customization stop there. Whenever you do get your hair done at the salon, make sure they wash your hair with the appropriate shampoo and conditioner for your type. READ: 6 Nutrients You Need For Healthy Hair (Reuters)

Washing your hair while on the go may sound like the perfect way to start your day with clean tresses, but seriously, no one has ever looked good with wet hair during the rush hour commute. Don’t leave the drying up to Mother Nature alone–put in the time and work for an effortlessly gorgeous finish. “One common mistake women make is washing their hair in the morning and then heading out with no time to blow dry,” explains Frank Barbosa, stylist of IT&LY HAIRFASHION. “You’ll end up with a disheveled look that needs to be put into a ponytail by mid-afternoon.” Take the time the night before to wash your hair. Not only will have more time to spare in the morning, but it will also give you the freedom to choose between the blow dryer or letting your strands air dry instead. READ: How To Make Fine Hair Reach New Heights (Reuters)

If you want to maintain your blowout for an extra day, make sure you keep your locks fresh with dry shampoo, which will soak up excess oil. “This should be a staple in every woman’s bathroom,” says celebrity stylist Sara Meddick of Beverly Hills-based Nelson J Salon. “It not only freshens hair by absorbing oils, but it also adds volume. This is a great product to revive limp, lifeless hair not only in the morning, but throughout the day. Any woman, no matter what type of hair they have, can use dry champoo.” Did we also mention it will give your hair a clean, yummy scent? READ: Move Over Dry Shampoo, There's A New Must-Have Product In Town (Reuters)

Want to tone down an unruly, puffy mane? “Simply take a spray bottle and moisten the hair in the morning,” says Meddick. “Then, take a little product, like a curl enhancer, mousse, or gel, scrunch it, and off you go. But remember not to touch your hair as its drying–it can cause your hair to frizz!” READ: 10 Foods You Need For Healthy Hair (Reuters)

Never underestimate the power of a sleek ponytail to put unmanageable hair in its place.  Meddick says the best way to control flyaways is by using a little bit of pomade to smooth baby hairs. You can also use miniature bobby pins matching your hair color to keep everything in place. READ: How To Get The Perfect Ponytail (Reuters)

“The easiest way to give your hair some height is by applying a light mousse or volumizing spray on the top of the head whenever the hair is wet or dry,” says Devin Toth, director of education for Ted Gibson Beauty in New York City. “Flip your head forward and over. Then, rough dry your hair until it’s completely dry.” READ: 6 Ways To Fight Frizz (Reuters)

Want your hair to have a healthy, gorgeous glow? Getting super shiny locks in seconds is a lot easier than you think. “Just use a light shine spray on dry hair,” says Toth. “But make sure it’s a spray because any other shine product will leave your hair flat and greasy.” WATCH: How To Get A Chic Chignon (Reuters)

Suffering from limp, lifeless hair? Add some bounce with ease, giving the illusion that you just stepped out of the salon. “Flip your hair forward and over,” explains Toth, who uses this technique with his clients to finish up any look. “Brush it downward with a boar bristle brush. Make sure you spray the brush with a light hold hairspray before you use it. Just flip back up, face the sky, and run your fingers through your hair to detangle. This is great because it’s brushing the hair smoothly without making it flat, leaving it with bouncy fullness.” READ: Find The Perfect Short Hairstyle To Flatter Your Face (Reuters)

“Have two or three ‘go-to’ hairstyles you can rock out when in a rush,” suggests Papworth. “Whether it be a sleek ponytail or a high bun, everyone has a look they feel comfortable with.” Just make sure you can knock out any last-minute style when in a hurry and have all your necessary tools at close range. READ: Does Beer Really Beautify Hair? (Reuters)

You may be tempted to wash your hair every day, but think twice before doing the deed. Your tresses may appear clean and fresh, but excess washing can strip your hair of the natural oils needed to look and feel its very best. Consider cutting down on how many times you wash your hair per week, which will give you extra time in the morning. If you work out at the gym, simply spritz some dry shampoo at the roots to soak up grease after exercising. Create a loose topknot overnight for touchable waves in the morning. (Reuters)